Morton Arboretum
Park Extensive tree research arboretum and public gardens
West of Chicago in Lisle, the Morton Arboretum displays thousands of trees across trails, demonstration gardens and seasonal programs; visitors come for hiking, cycling, autumn foliage and family events.
The Morton Arboretum is a large public arboretum and research institution in Lisle, Illinois, established in 1922 by Joy Morton and covering about 1,700 acres. It combines public gardens, conservation collections and scientific research on trees and woody plants.
Founded in the early 20th century to promote the planting and conservation of trees, the Arboretum has grown its living collections and research programs over the decades and now serves as a regional center for tree science and education. It operates botanical collections, conservation initiatives and public programming.
Located in the village of Lisle in DuPage County, the arboretum sits roughly west of downtown Chicago and is accessible by car from the Chicago metropolitan area. The property includes mixed woodlands, cultivated gardens and open landscapes.
- Founding and size: Founded in 1922 by industrialist Joy Morton and covering approximately 1,700 acres, it is both a public garden and a research institution.
- Collections and research: Noted for seasonal displays and a large collection of labeled trees and woody plants used in research and conservation.
What to See #
- Children's Garden: The Children's Garden, a dedicated interactive area for young visitors with hands-on exhibits and play features.
- Trails and landscapes: Extensive trail network and open meadows spanning the arboretum's landscape across lakes and woodland.
How to Get to Morton Arboretum #
The Morton Arboretum is in Lisle, Illinois (about 25-30 miles / 40-50 km west of downtown Chicago). By car take I‑88 (East/West Tollway) toward Lisle and follow local roads to the arboretum; Route/County roads and IL‑53 serve the area. By public transit take Metra’s BNSF commuter line from Chicago Union Station to Lisle station, then a short taxi or rideshare (roughly a 5-15 minute drive) to the arboretum - local bus service is limited, so plan for the final short road transfer.
Tips for Visiting Morton Arboretum #
- Plan a visit in autumn for peak fall color and go on a weekday morning to avoid weekend crowds that concentrate at the visitor center and popular trails.
- Enter through the arboretum's main Route 53 entrance, pick up a map and follow the marked driving or walking loops to see the highlights rather than wandering aimlessly.
- If you want to see popular seasonal features or guided tram tours, check and reserve those timed activities on the Arboretum's website in advance to avoid disappointment.
Best Time to Visit Morton Arboretum #
Visit in spring for flowering displays or in autumn for peak fall color at the Morton Arboretum.
Weather & Climate near Morton Arboretum #
Morton Arboretum's climate is classified as Hot-Summer Continental - Hot-Summer Continental climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -10°C to 30°C. Moderate rainfall (935 mm/year).
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -1°C and lows of -10°C. Moderate rainfall (41 mm).
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February
February is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -8°C. Moderate rainfall (37 mm).
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March
March is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (66 mm).
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April
April is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of 3°C. Regular rainfall (96 mm).
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May
May is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (94 mm).
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June
June is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (103 mm).
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 30°C and lows of 17°C. Regular rainfall (96 mm).
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August
August is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 16°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (104 mm).
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September
September is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 12°C. Regular rainfall (93 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (67 mm).
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November
November is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (77 mm).
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December
December is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -7°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm).
